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How to join Merchant Navy
- The merchant navy is a fleet of commercial ships that transport cargo and passengers globally. To join, you need to meet age and educational requirements. Choose a suitable course at a maritime institute, such as deck cadet or marine engineering.
- After training, pass the entrance exams IMUCET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test Rank) and interview to become a deck officer or engineer. It’s a fulfilling career, offering global travel opportunities while working at sea.
What is Merchant Navy?
The Merchant Navy refers to the civilian fleet of ships engaged in international commercial shipping. These ships transport goods and passengers across the world’s oceans and waterways, similar to how trucks transport goods on land.
The Merchant Navy plays a crucial role in global trade and commerce, facilitating the movement of items like clothing, electronics, food, and oil between different countries.
Merchant Navy officers on these ships ensure the safe and efficient transportation of goods, making them an essential component of the global supply chain and international trade.
Is Merchant Navy a Government job?
The merchant navy is not a government job in the traditional sense. It refers to commercial shipping operations that transport goods and passengers via sea routes. The personnel working in the merchant navy are employed by private shipping companies rather than the government. However, there may be regulations and standards set by governments to ensure safety, security, and operational procedures within the merchant navy.
Eligibility for Merchant Navy:
- Education: To be eligible for the Merchant Navy, aspiring candidates must have completed either their 10th or 12th-grade education.
- Age: Typically 17-25 years.
- Medical: Must pass a fitness exam for physical and mental health.
- Skills: Good English communication.
- Documentation: Valid passport.
- Training/Certification: Approved maritime courses from recognized institutes.
- Experience: Some roles may require prior experience.
Skills Required to Join Merchant Navy
A career in the Merchant Navy is both exciting and challenging, demanding a unique blend of technical expertise, mental fortitude, and interpersonal skills. If you’re considering this path, here are some key skills you’ll need to cultivate:
Technical Skills:
- Navigation and Seamanship: Understanding charts, using nautical instruments, and plotting courses are crucial for Deck Officers.
- Marine Engineering: For Engineer Officers, knowledge of ship machinery, electrical systems, and maintenance procedures is essential.
- Mathematics and Physics: Strong foundations in these subjects are vital for both Deck and Engineer Officers for calculations, problem-solving, and understanding physical principles at play.
Mental Abilities:
- Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: The ability to think clearly under pressure and make quick, informed decisions is paramount in unpredictable maritime situations.
- Resourcefulness and Adaptability: Being able to improvise and adjust to changing circumstances is crucial, as resources can be limited onboard.
- Stress Management and Resilience: Living in a confined space with a diverse crew for extended periods requires emotional stability and the ability to cope with stress.
Interpersonal Skills:
- Communication and Teamwork: Excellent communication, both verbal and written, is essential for effective collaboration within the crew. Leadership skills are also important for Deck Officers.
- Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity: Working with people from various backgrounds necessitates understanding and respecting cultural differences.
- Discipline and Self-Motivation: The ability to adhere to strict routines, maintain focus, and motivate oneself is crucial for sustained performance at sea
Additional Skills:
- Physical Fitness: Regular exercise and maintaining good physical health are necessary for the physically demanding tasks onboard.
- Swimming and Water Safety: Being comfortable in and around water is essential for safety reasons.
- First Aid and Emergency Response: Basic medical knowledge and the ability to handle emergencies are valuable assets.
5 Steps to Join Merchant Navy
Are you curious about life on the open ocean and want a job that’s both exciting and responsible? Joining the merchant navy could be your ticket to adventure. In this guide, we’ll explain how to get started on your journey.
Step 1. Choose your path:
- Deck Officer: Responsible for navigating the ship and ensuring its safe passage. Requires a Bachelor of Science (Nautical Science) or Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS).
- Engine Officer: Responsible for maintaining and operating the ship’s machinery. Requires a Bachelor of Engineering (Marine Engineering) or Diploma in Marine Engineering.
Step 2. Meet the eligibility:
- Educational Qualification:
- For Deck Officer: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) and Minimum 60% aggregate.
- For Engine Officer: Diploma in relevant Engineering field with Minimum 50% aggregate.
- Physical Fitness: Pass a stringent medical test covering eyesight, hearing, color vision, etc.
- Age Limit: Usually between 17 and 25 years old, but may vary depending on the course and institute.
Step 3. Clear the entrance exams:
- IMU CET: Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (mandatory for government training institutes).
- AIMNET: All India Merchant Navy Entrance Test (accepted by many private institutes).
- Shipping company sponsored exams: Some companies conduct their own entrance exams for direct cadet recruitment.
Step 4. Undergo pre-sea training:
- Enroll in a DG Shipping approved Maritime Training Institute (MTI) for a 1-year pre-sea training program.
- This covers theoretical and practical training in navigation, machinery, safety procedures, etc.
- You’ll also earn your STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) certificates, mandatory for seafaring.
Step 5. Gain seafaring experience:
- Join a shipping company as a cadet and gain practical experience at sea under the supervision of senior officers.
- Depending on your chosen stream, you’ll progress through ranks like Deck Cadet, Officer Trainee, Third Officer, Second Officer, etc.
- Each rank requires passing competency exams conducted by DG Shipping.
What is the salary in the merchant navy?
Merchant Navy salaries vary depending on the rank, experience, and type of ship. However, the average starting salary for a Merchant Navy officer in India is between ₹4.80 LPA and ₹6 LPA, which is equivalent to ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 per month.
Here is a table of the average monthly salaries for different ranks in the Merchant Navy:
| Rank | Average Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Deck Cadet | ₹30,000 – ₹70,000 |
| 3rd Officer | ₹1,99,000- ₹3,50,000 |
| 2nd Officer | ₹3,33,000 – ₹4,15,000 |
| Chief Officer | ₹5,40,000 – ₹7,90,000 |
| Captain | ₹6,66,000 – ₹11,65,000 |
How to join Merchant Navy after class 12th?
You can pursue a career in the Merchant Navy after class 12th/ higher secondary school through various educational pathways; each pathway leads to a specific role within the Merchant Navy, offering opportunities to work on ships and contribute to global maritime commerce.
Here are routes by which you can join the Merchant Navy after class 12th in the Deck department or Engine department:
2. Deck Department
- Diploma Nautical Science
- B.Sc Nautical Science
2. Engine Department
- B.Tech Marine Engineering
6 Steps to Join Merchant Navy after class 12th
Step 1: Eligibility Check
Ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria, which typically include being at least 17 years old and passed class 10th and class 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized Board with a minimum aggregate of 60% marks in PCM.
Step 2: Entrance Exam (IMUCET)
- Prepare for the Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU CET). This is a crucial step, and you should aim to secure a good rank in this exam.
- Fill out the application form for IMUCET and appear for the exam. The exam usually covers subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English, and General Knowledge.
Step 3: Choose Department
A. Deck Department
If you want to pursue a career in the deck department:
Diploma Nautical Science- Apply for company sponsorship from shipping companies like Anglo Eastern, Great Eastern, etc.
- The sponsoring company will usually conduct exams, and interviews and select candidates for pre-sea training.
B.Sc Nautical Science
- Alternatively, you can join B.Sc. Nautical Science.
- Apply to IMU campuses or affiliated colleges offering this 3-year bachelor’s degree program.
- Completed the program, which includes academic coursework and sea training.
B. Engine Department
If you want to pursue a career in the engine department:
B.Tech Marine Engineering- Opt for a B.Tech in Marine Engineering, a 4-year bachelor’s degree.
- Apply to IMU campuses or affiliated colleges offering this program.
- Complete the program, which includes academic coursework and practical training.
Step 4: Medical Examination
If you want to join the merchant navy after class 12th, Irrespective of the department you choose, you will need to undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure you meet the required physical fitness standards.
Physical Standards 1) Candidates should be physically fit for sea service under the standard norm, with eyesight up to 6/6 in the better eye and 6/9 in the worst eye. 2) NO COLOR BLINDNESS by Ishihara chart. 3) The D.G. Shipping Medical Certificate must be issued by D.G. Shipping Approved Doctors, under the specified medical examination requirements.
Step 5: Counseling and Selection
- Depending on your performance in the entrance exam and interviews, you will be offered counseling and selection for the appropriate training program.
Step 6: Pre-Sea Training and Certifications and Licensing
- Once selected, you will undergo pre-sea training, which includes theoretical and practical training on ships or at maritime institutes.
- After completing your training, you will need to obtain the relevant certifications and licenses required for your specific role in the Merchant Navy.
Merchant Navy Courses
- The merchant navy is a fleet of commercial ships that transport cargo and passengers globally. To join, you need to meet age and educational requirements. Choose a suitable course at a maritime institute, such as deck cadet or marine engineering.
- After training, pass the entrance exams IMUCET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test Rank) and interview to become a deck officer or engineer. It’s a fulfilling career, offering global travel opportunities while working at sea.
1. Diploma Nautical Science
- The Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) is a one-year undergraduate program, the candidate who has a class 12th passing certificate with 60% can apply for DNS.
- DNS is divided into two semesters, it offers intensive training in Navigation, Seamanship, Ship Construction, MARPOL, and Marine Engineering Knowledge.
- After 18 months of sea service, the one-year DNS Course leads to a B.Sc. in Nautical Science. The Diploma in Nautical Science Course is a one-year residential curriculum.
A. DNS Course Eligibility Criteria
| A) Educational | Requirements |
| 1)Passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized Board with a minimum aggregate of 60%(70% for AEMA) marks in PCM. | |
| B) Age | 2) English should have been passed with a minimum of 50% marks as a subject, either in 10th or 12th standard. |
| Minimum age: 18 years Maximum age:25 years |
2. B.Sc Nautical Science
- A Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Nautical Science is an undergraduate program geared toward training individuals for roles as Deck Officers in the Merchant Navy.
- This intensive curriculum spans navigation, seamanship, ship operations, and compliance with maritime regulations like SOLAS and MARPOL. Students often gain hands-on experience with bridge simulators and undergo sea service to apply their knowledge practically.
- Safety and emergency procedures are emphasized, and graduates typically earn certifications, such as Officer of the Watch (OOW), enabling them to serve as deck or navigating officers on ships.
A. BSc Nautical Science Course Eligibility Criteria
| Category | Requirements |
| A) Educational | 1) Passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized Board with a minimum aggregate of 60% marks in PCM. |
| 2) English should have been passed with a minimum of 50% marks as a subject, either in 10th or 12th standard. | |
| B) Age | Minimum age: 18 years Maximum age: For Male: 25 years For Female: 27 years |
3. B.Tech Marine Engineering
- A Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Marine Engineering is an undergraduate engineering program that focuses on training individuals to become marine engineers.
- Marine engineers are responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of a ship’s propulsion systems, including engines and other mechanical and electrical systems.
A. Btech Marine Engineering Course Eligibility Criteria
| Category | Requirements |
| A) Educational | 1) Passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized Board with a minimum aggregate of 60% marks in PCM. |
| 2) English should have been passed with a minimum of 50% marks as a subject, either in 10th or 12th standard. | |
| B) Age | Minimum age: 18 years Maximum age: For Male: 25 years For Female: 27 years |
Benefits of Joining Merchant Navy after class 12th
Joining the Merchant Navy after class 12th offers several compelling benefits:
- Global Exposure: It provides an opportunity to travel the world, experiencing diverse cultures and gaining a global perspective.
- Good Salary: Merchant Navy careers often come with competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, offering financial security and growth prospects.
- Career Progression and fast promotions: The industry offers a structured career path, with opportunities for advancement through various ranks and increased responsibilities.
- Specialised Training: Graduates undergo rigorous training in navigation, engineering, or other areas, gaining valuable technical skills that are transferable to other industries.
Adventure and Challenge: For those who seek adventure and enjoy overcoming challenges, the maritime profession offers a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle at sea, away from the traditional office setting.
Over 150+ Students selected in Top Shipping Merchant Navy Companies of the World
- The merchant navy is a fleet of commercial ships that transport cargo and passengers globally. To join, you need to meet age and educational requirements. Choose a suitable course at a maritime institute, such as deck cadet or marine engineering.
- After training, pass the entrance exams IMUCET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test Rank) and interview to become a deck officer or engineer. It’s a fulfilling career, offering global travel opportunities while working at sea.
How to Join Merchant Navy : FAQ
Yes, you can join the Merchant Navy after completing class 12th. You can join the Merchant Navy after class 12th through various courses such as DNS, BSc Nautical Science, and B.Tech Marine Engineering.
Ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria, which generally include being at least 17 years old and having passed class 12th with a minimum 60% aggregate Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
To join the Merchant Navy after class 12th, students need to clear specific entrance exams conducted by Indian Maritime University. The entrance exam in India for Joining the Merchant Navy is the Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMUCET).
The average salary of a Merchant Navy Officer is INR 1,00,000 – 7,00,000 per month depending on the rank in the Merchant Navy
There are several departments on a ship which include the Deck Department and Engine Department.
